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This page is here to help you get to know me better - my experience, values, and what I stand for - so you can make an informed choice this election. |
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27 March 2025
So I’m going to be standing for both Mayor and Rural Councillor at this year’s local government elections. If elected as mayor I don’t get to be a councillor as well - the next highest polling candidate gets that honour.
My reasons for standing for Mayor are to bring a fresh style of collaborative leadership which has been asked for by many of you. Nominations open on 1 July and those of you who have a passion for our community - please think about standing.
In today’s King Country News - the rest of the article is in the comments.
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16 May 2025
 Important Update As many of you know, I’m standing for election as Mayor of Waitomo this year. I’ll also still be standing as a Rural Ward Councillor — because I believe in giving voters a real choice, and choice is a good thing.
To reflect this next step, I’ll be updating the name of this page from “Janette Osborne – Your Councillor” to “Osborne for Mayor”.
I’m proud to launch my campaign under the banner:
Fresh Leadership for a Stronger Waitomo – Growing Our Economy, Protecting Our Environment, Strengthening Our Communities, and Keeping Life Affordable – for People Today and for Generations to Come.
Our district deserves leadership that looks forward, listens closely, and acts with courage. I’m committed to bringing new energy, practical experience, and a deep respect for the people and places that make Waitomo special.
Stay tuned for updates, and thank you for being part of the journey. Let’s shape the future of Waitomo — together.
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20 May 2025
I’m proud to serve as one of your current Councillors on the Waitomo District Council. The views shared on this page are my own and do not represent the official position of the Council.
I’m here because I care deeply about our people and our place. In this year’s local government elections, I’m standing for both Mayor of Waitomo and Rural Ward Councillor. (Please note: if I am elected Mayor, the Rural Ward seat would be filled by the next highest polling candidate.)
Why am I running?
Because Waitomo deserves Fresh Leadership for a Stronger Future – leadership that’s focused on:
Growing our economy
Protecting our environment
Strengthening our communities
Keeping life affordable – for people today and for generations to come.
Let’s build a Waitomo that works for everyone.
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Ko Wai Au – Where I Come From, and Why I Care
I was born in Balclutha, South Otago, and grew up on a sheep farm between Milton and Balclutha — that’s me in the pushchair!
My father was a third-generation sheep farmer and my mother was a British born nurse and midwife who arrived here in the North Island in 1952.
When Dad retired, we moved to Nelson, where I completed my schooling and was introduced to rowing — a sport that taught me determination, teamwork, and endurance.
My working life started in Nelson and took me to Wellington, London, and Christchurch. Then in 2009, while visiting Waitomo Caves, I met Kim Osborne — and the rest is history.
For the past 15 years, I’ve lived with Kim on his family’s sheep and beef farm near Waitomo Caves. Over that time, I’ve come to know and love this community — and for the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a Rural Councillor on the Waitomo District Council.
We’re proud to have the next generation already stepping in — Kim’s son George and his fiancée Callie are living on the farm now, with Kim’s daughter Hannah, her husband Anthony, and their daughter Lily planning to return in the coming years to take over the farming operation.
This is our home — and I’m standing for Mayor because I want to help lead this district with fresh energy, practical experience, and a strong commitment to a thriving future for all generations in Waitomo.
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Why experience matters – and what I bring to the table
One of the things people often ask me is: “What makes you a good candidate for Mayor?”
The short answer? I bring broad, hands-on experience in governance, finance, business, and community service — and I know how to ask the right questions to get things done.
I’ve been a qualified accountant for over 25 years, specialising in management and business accounting across both the private and public sectors — including wool exporting, utilities, government departments, and education. That experience means I don’t just read balance sheets — I know how to plan ahead, question assumptions, and make smart, future-focused decisions that balance the numbers with what really matters: people and communities.
I’ve served on multiple boards, including:
 The Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust – where we appoint and review directors of The Lines Company Primary Wool Co-op – NZ’s only farmer-owned wool co-op, where I helped lead a successful capital raise (Director then Chair) Carrfields Primary Wool – a $30+ million joint venture, where I chaired the Audit & Risk Committee and led strategy workI’ve also run my own small business for nearly 20 years (Briar Patch www.briarpatch.co.nz), and my husband and I farm sheep and beef on 800 hectares near Waitomo Caves — so I bring both commercial and rural perspectives to the table.
Whether it’s reviewing budgets, negotiating contracts, planning for risk, or just quietly getting through hundreds of pages of council reports — I’ve done it. And I do it because I care deeply about our district and want to make sure decisions are made wisely, with the long-term in mind.
I’m not standing for Mayor to make promises I can’t keep — I’m standing because I believe I’ve got the skills, experience, and commitment to lead our district well.
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Four Generations Committed to Waitomo’s Future
Kim and I have called the Waitomo District home for many years — I moved here in 2010, but Kim and his parents have been here since 1984. Together, we farm Hollow Hill Farm, and while I step back from the day-to-day to serve on Council, we’re proud to employ others locally to help keep things running.
Now, the next generation is returning home too. Kim’s son George and his soon-to-be wife Callie live just across the road. His eldest daughter Hannah, her husband Anthony and their daughter Lily are planning to move back and build on the farm and take over the farming operations. That will mean four generations of our whānau living and working here — caring for the land, contributing to the district, and looking ahead to what we can pass on.
It’s that multi-generational perspective that I bring to my mayoral campaign.
I’m standing for Mayor because I believe in growing our economy, protecting our environment, strengthening our communities, and keeping life affordable — not just by cutting costs, but by increasing the money coming into our district, supporting local jobs, and unlocking opportunities that help all of us thrive.
This is home. And I want to lead with the same long-term thinking I bring to our farm — for our people today, and for those who come after us.
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Why I’m standing for Mayor
I’m standing for Mayor because I believe we need a change in direction.
If I believed we were truly on the right track — that all voices were being heard around the Council table, and that we were building a future that works for everyone — I wouldn’t be putting my hand up. But I’ve sat in those meetings. I’ve seen how decisions are made. And I worry deeply about where we’ll end up if we keep going the way we are.
The financial headlines don’t tell the full story. Please follow my upcoming posts as I explain why I believe we need fresh leadership and a more transparent, inclusive approach for the Waitomo District.
Will our kids want to live in this district?
Will they be able to?
What kind of economy are we leaving them?
Will we become a district where too many people are out of work, and others have to leave to find opportunities?
We can do better than that. We must.
I’m standing because I care too much about this place — and the people in it — to sit by and hope things improve.
It’s time for fresh leadership that’s focused on growing our economy, listening to our communities, and making sure we’re planning for a future that works for people today and for generations to come.
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 This is my husband Kim — and we’re a team.
If I’m elected Mayor, you won’t see Kim donning a dress to become a "Mayoress" — but you will see him standing firmly beside me, supporting me every step of the way so I can give this role my all.
He’ll be the one keeping things running at the farm. He’ll be the one cooking most of our dinners. And he’ll be helping make it possible for me to dedicate the full time (and then some!) that the Mayor’s job deserves.
We’ve already had a pretty intense trial run — last year Kim was injured and couldn’t work or drive for nearly 10 months. With the help of our casual staff, family and friends we got through it, and I didn’t miss a beat with my Council or governance duties. That gave us both confidence in what’s possible when we pull together with the help of the team around us.
In preparation for the Mayor’s role, I’ll be realigning some of my multiple voluntary governance commitments, restructuring parts of my own business, and yes — reprioritising the house cleaning too! All so I can step fully into the role with focus and energy.
Kim has always been a huge supporter of community — whether it's on the local school board, sports days, the axemen’s club, or just quietly helping out when someone says, “Can you give us a hand?”
If Kim were as into council papers, governance, and accounting as I am — he’d be the one running for mayor. But his strength is being a bloody good farmer. So, I’m the one out here doing the community work that fits my skills — and we’ll continue to do it together.
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   July 2025 roundup
With the election ahead it’s great to see so many candidates stepping up – choice is good!
My focus is firmly on the future — and what a strong, connected Waitomo could be. Let’s build it together.
 9, 15, 16, 23 July – Strong GovernanceThis month I’ve been deeply involved in the director appointment process for The Lines Company as part of my role with the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust. It’s not just about finding people with the right technical skills — it’s about finding leaders who reflect our community’s values and understand the importance of serving on a community-owned company.
We’re fortunate that our approach attracts high-calibre candidates who genuinely want to serve the people of the King Country. All six trustees contribute actively, bringing diverse perspectives to a robust, values-based selection process. We also conduct one-on-one director check-ins each year, which foster open, ongoing dialogue and strengthen trust in governance.
Good governance is the foundation of strong communities — it ensures our district assets are looked after not just for today, but for future generations.
 4 July – Community Film NightWhat a fantastic evening at the Les Munro Centre! It was heartwarming to see children running around, parents catching up, and new friendships forming.
Events like this may seem small, but they make a big difference — they create shared experiences that bind us together. Especially in smaller towns, these moments help people feel connected and seen. We need more of this: more spaces, more events, more chances to connect as neighbours, families, and friends.
 Dog-Friendly SpacesAfter the recent review of the dog bylaws and community feedback — including one standout verbal submission — Council staff are now exploring options for a dog-friendly space in Te Kūiti.
These aren’t just spaces for dogs; they’re spaces for people. Dog parks are meeting places — they create natural opportunities for conversations, connections, and new friendships. In other towns, I’ve seen how these areas bring neighbours together and help build inclusive, welcoming communities.
We can make this happen without a big price tag — and I’ll keep pushing to make sure it doesn’t fall off the radar.
 21 July – Kāinga Ora BlessingI joined Councillor Janene New and Mayor John Robertson at the blessing of the new Kāinga Ora homes on Lawrence Street. Wishing the new tenants all the best as they settle into their new homes — here’s to warm, dry, and happy beginnings.
 26 July – Supporting Local EnterpriseWith my Briar Patch business hat on, we wrapped up our fourth wool festival of the year at Fibretron in Mystery Creek — joining earlier events in Wellington and Auckland.
What strikes me every time is that more than 90% of our revenue comes from outside the district. Small and online businesses like ours bring external income into Waitomo — and that’s something we need to enable more of. Supporting local enterprise helps build a more resilient economy for everyone.
 29 July – Sister City PrideOur Sister City relationship with Tatsuno, Japan, marks its 30th anniversary this year,
Listening to our tamariki speak about their experience — and to Kaumatua King Turner reflect on how the trip challenged long-held perceptions — was incredibly moving.
These exchanges do more than provide travel opportunities. They teach empathy, broaden horizons, and promote peace and understanding. Les Munro had the vision to build this bridge decades ago, and it continues to bring generations closer together.
In a world that can sometimes feel divided, connections like this remind us of the value of shared understanding and cultural respect. Let’s keep growing this legacy.
Authorised by Janette Osborne, 2879 Hauturu Road, RD8, Te Kuiti
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14 August 2024
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17 August 2025
 Strong leadership starts with strong teams.I agree that no Mayor achieves anything on their own – real progress only comes when a Council works together as a team with our community.
That’s exactly why I’m standing. Waitomo deserves leadership that values every Councillor’s contribution, not just a select few. Every voice around the Council table represents our people, and every voice matters.
As Mayor, I’ll work to build a culture where all elected members are included, respected, and empowered to bring forward the ideas and concerns of the communities they represent. Because when collaboration is genuine, our district is stronger.
It’s time for fresh leadership that unites the whole Council, listens widely, and keeps the focus where it belongs – on delivering for the people of Waitomo.
If I’m elected Mayor, one of my first priorities will be to help form a collegial, connected team of elected members — one that works together respectfully for the good of the whole district.
I bring both the qualifications and the experience to support this. I hold a degree in management and have held leadership roles across both government and private organisations, with experience in both governance and management. I know what it takes to bring people together, set a positive tone, and build a team that delivers.
 I already have plans in place:
We’ll visit every part of our district — not just the towns, but also our rural villages. We’ll explore the council’s assets and services:
 Who maintains which parks? What roads, water systems, and facilities are in place? Where are the sites of significance to mana whenua?Too often, elected members haven’t set foot in some parts of our district — or haven’t been there in decades. That’s a missed opportunity.
Let’s not divide and rule.
Let’s build understanding of each other and the diverse communities we serve. Let’s work as a team — with shared knowledge and shared purpose.
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 21 August 2025
One of the questions I've been asked a few times now is “What is your stance on Māori Wards?”
Every district is different, so this post is a summary of how the issue relates specifically to the Waitomo District.
In 2023, as part of our six-yearly Representation Review, we investigated and consulted on whether Māori Wards should be introduced for the Waitomo District. This included extensive community engagement, with meetings held at several Whare and strong leadership from the Te Rāngai Whakakaupapa Kōrero (Māori Relations Committee) chaired by Eady Tanirau Manawaiti - Your Council Candidate 2025
I had the privilege of attending the Whare committee meetings at Tokanganui-a-noho and Mōkau ki Runga, and would also have attended Hauauru ki Uta had I known the meeting was taking place.
I also read widely on Māori Wards, including looking at what structures other councils have in place. I particularly admire the Māngai Māori structure used by Hamilton City Council, which sits alongside their Māori Wards. Closer to home, I read and listened to every one of the 60-plus submissions we received.
After weighing it up, I did not support Māori Wards for our district because they would limit voting choice and could actually reduce Māori representation. Under the current system, with 45% of our district being Māori, there is the potential for multiple Māori councillors – even a Māori Mayor – to be elected by the whole community.
In Part Two, I'll share the full statement I gave at the 2023 Māori Wards deliberation on 17 October 2023. The recording of the meeting and all written submissions are also available on the Council's website. The decision not to implement Māori Wards was unanimous.
But simply leaving things as they are is not enough. Past councils have not always understood or respected the depth of Māori connection to whenua and awa. We need a structure that strengthens those voices in decision-making.
In his posts Eady Tanirau Manawaiti - Your Council Candidate 2025 has already outlined the important work being led by the Te Rāngai Whakakaupapa Kōrero (Māori Relations Committee) he chairs.
While the opportunity to be part of this committee this term wasn’t available, I do watch the livestreams and respect the view that having too many councillors present could be off-putting. I do attend whenever I am invited – whether by local Whare members or the committee itself. If I am elected as Mayor, I will welcome the opportunity to become a member.
As elected members, we have not yet had the benefit of a Council tikanga programme, and I would absolutely welcome this. I value having our meetings opened and closed with karakia and feel uncomfortable when they are not. While my pronunciation for karakia is not yet strong, I am practising and committed to improving – my mother, who was a midwife in Northland in the 1950s, was fluent in te reo.
I also believe it is vital that all councillors understand the places of significance to mana whenua across our district. That is why I have asked for this to be included in a two-day induction tour for councillors, to ensure this knowledge is woven into our governance from the start.
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21 August 2025 Part One was a summary and background. What follows is the full text of my statement at the Māori Wards deliberations on 17 October 2023, so you can see exactly what I said and why.
Deliberation Summary – Janette Osborne
17 October 2023
Firstly, thank you to everyone who has taken the time to make a submission – it has been hugely valuable to hear from such a wide cross section of the local community. Thank you also to the Whares which welcomed us – this was also greatly appreciated.
Numerically we received more submissions in favour of status quo than for the other options – but this isn’t a poll or a vote. It has to be noted that many of the other submissions were on behalf of groups of people rather than just individuals so the number of people and voices represented far exceeds the 63 submissions received.
One of the submissions was by way of video with many, many members of the Marae passing on their preference on camera. To see this level of involvement and engagement was truly heartening.
This level of engagement has been achieved under status quo. In the last election four Māori candidates stood. In the urban ward if there had been a 13 vote difference there would be two Māori councillors sitting at this table instead of just one.
In the Rural electorate two of the record number of seven candidates were Māori. Unfortunately, they were two of the four unsuccessful candidates this time around.
Under status quo all those on both the Māori and general rolls can vote for Māori candidates. It was pointed out by submitters that under status quo it is possible to have six Māori councillors and a Māori Mayor. Under status quo there is the opportunity to stand and with 45% Māori population there is also a very good chance of being elected. Councillor Manawaiti is proof of this.
As the central government legislation currently stands, candidates for Māori Ward seats need to be nominated by two people on the Māori electoral roll within the Waitomo District. The candidates do not have to whakapapa or even live in the district. Nor do they have to be of Māori descent.
Only those on the Māori roll can vote for the Māori ward candidates and to do this they give up their right to vote for the urban and rural wards. If there aren’t enough candidates for the Māori wards this could lead to automatic appointments of Māori or non-Māori candidates.
Once elected every councillor has duties and responsibilities for the whole district not just the ward they are elected by. A Māori ward councillor will still have the same duties around Long
Term and Annual Plans, infrastructure, roading etc as every other councillor.
For any significant decisions the council goes out to consultation. Everyone including Māori have the opportunity to provide submissions both in writing and verbally.
Throughout this consultation process the question in the forefront of my mind has been “Will this provide better representation?”
After having read and heard all the submissions my conclusion regarding Māori wards is that they will not only limit who you can vote for but also be detrimental to Māori representation. The opportunity to aim for six Māori councillors and the Mayor will be lost for the next two elections.
We also heard from submitters who talked with deep passion and emotion about their connection to the awa and the whenua and spoke of the transgressions of past councils (as Mayor Robertson has already referred to) For these things to have occurred it is clear that status quo is also not an option. There should have been an understanding of why and how these places are significant to Mana Whenua. There is over 400 years of history and connection that we need to learn.
Over this consultation period, we have had new conversations and new connections – I would like this to be the start of a journey together to learn and understand and incorporate into our thinking and decision-making. I would like to see Māori more represented as candidates and as elected councillors and more involved in our consultation processes. I would like to see the council embrace and live Te Ao Māori values – we will be much better together than separately.
Since the arrival of Europeans, Māori have had to learn and understand the Pakeha world. The same is not true of Pakeha understanding the Māori world. To do this we need to learn and that won’t come as part of the formal business of council – it will come through conversations like the ones we have started in this consultation process so we can understand the places of significance and understand better the Māori world and what we should be considering here at council.
So for these reasons I support the resolutions which are closest to option three to establish a formal committee with external members.
This committee must be jointly designed by Māori and Council – it must provide better representation and voices to be heard on matters of importance than our current structure provides.
This committee must be properly resourced and external members need to be remunerated for their time and input. It must be an official council committee that is empowered to make recommendations to Council.
Just as this morning’s Audit and Risk committee has made recommendations to council. The same structure will apply. It would be most unusual for a recommendation to council not to be acted upon.
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23 August 2025 Experience is important. So is staying current.
I’ve been a Chartered Accountant (CAANZ) for 25 years, a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, and I’m also a member of Risk NZ. Every year, without fail, I invest in professional development — at my own expense — to keep my governance, financial, and risk management skills sharp.
This really excites me! In mid-September I’ll be attending the Institute of Directors’ two-day leadership conference — with themes like building trust in a world of constant disruption and recognising New Zealand’s nature-dependent economy. Every session looks thought-provoking and highly relevant.
And this is on top of the industry conferences I attend for Energy Trusts and Local Government. I make it a priority to budget for learning: last year I completed Kotahitanga – Principles of Māori Governance and Climate Change Governance Essentials. This year it’s been Ethics, High Performing Chairs, and now this leadership conference.
What’s important about that? It means I don’t just have experience — I maintain and build on it. I keep up with changes in legislation, new approaches to managing risk, and better ways to plan for long-term success.
I’m committed to lifelong learning – always growing, always improving. If elected Mayor, you’ll have someone who not only brings a strong foundation of experience, but also shows up prepared, qualified, and current — because leading a district can’t be done on yesterday’s knowledge.
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30 August 2025
I am deeply concerned about affordability - especially for Te Kūiti residents connected to water. At their last meeting on 6 October 2022, the previous council approved the first $8.8 million of a now $10 million water resilience project - without public consultation. That means $10 million of debt sitting on the shoulders of those connected to water in Te Kūiti. To be clear: I am not against investing in water resilience. Safe and reliable water is essential. My concern is that not all the risks were assessed. At the time, there was a belief - almost a “certainty” - that Three Waters reform would take on the debt and spread the costs across the much larger Entity B. That hasn’t happened, and the change in legislation means Te Kūiti households are left with the bill. Yes, water services are moving to Waikato Water. So technically, it won’t show as a rate rise — but the costs haven’t disappeared. They’ve only shifted. And unless household incomes rise, many families will struggle to afford them. That’s why I keep saying we must grow our local economy. More income for households, more ability to assist those on fixed incomes, and a stronger foundation to keep life affordable in Waitomo. Economic development has usually made up just 1–4% of rates — and the majority of that cost has been carried by the rural sector, not the households now facing higher water charges. Let’s work on solutions for our whole community not just headlines. |
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31 August 2025
This is what enterprise and economic growth looks like. Here in Waitomo, people are creating opportunities, building businesses, and lifting incomes. From wellness retreats to wool sheds, local enterprise is thriving – and every step forward strengthens our economy. When income grows, affordability follows. That means more money circulating in our community, more services sustained locally, and a stronger foundation for keeping life affordable for families and ratepayers alike. This is the pathway to a vibrant, resilient Waitomo – supporting our people, our businesses, and our future. #FreshLeadership #OsborneForMayor #StrongerWaitomo |
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2 September 2025
 A Glimpse of Life at Hollow Hill Farm   These photos from our farm and family show more than just daily life — they reflect the values that drive me as a candidate for Mayor. From sheep & beef, to Briar Patch yarns, to planting thousands of mānuka and protecting native bush, our work is about building a future that lasts.
It’s not just about us — it’s about why we care so deeply for Waitomo’s future. Growing enterprise, protecting our environment, and creating opportunities for the next generation aren’t just words — they’re what we live by every day.
I’m proud to call Waitomo home, and I want to bring that same commitment, care, and forward thinking to our Council and our communities.
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Friday 5 September 2025 at 4.39 pm
Farming is tough — real farming, where it’s your main income and the livelihood that supports your family. It’s an industry with one of the highest suicide rates in New Zealand. There are plenty of lows: droughts, injuries that make you wonder if you’ll ever farm again, and seasons when the bulls don’t perform and only a handful of calves arrive. We’ve faced all of that this past year.
That’s why being invited to share our story on Country Calendar was such a huge high. It meant Kim’s story — alongside his daughter Hannah, her husband Anthony and their daughter Lily, his son George and fiancée Callie, and our friends David, Brydie and Corin who helped carry filming gear into Hollow Hill Cave — could be told. A cave so special only a select few will ever see it in person. Mr 9 and Mr 11 couldn’t wait to see their parents on TV, and we had the fridge stacked with party food ready for a Father’s Day viewing to remember.
Behind the scenes, there were also weeks and months of preparation. On our Briar Patch website, we made sure stock was ready — importing extra hemp yarns and showcasing the work of other local makers who were excited for the exposure and hopeful for a boost in sales. It wasn’t just about us; it was about lifting up our wider community.
Sadly, politics has stepped in. A complaint means our family won’t get to share that celebration just yet, or see how the producers pieced our story together on screen. Our excitement has turned to disappointment — especially when a first Father’s Day only comes once. But it doesn’t take away from what matters most: the pride we have in our farming life, the resilience we’ve built through challenges, and the support we give each other as a family and as a community.
That’s what leadership is about too — facing the tough days head-on, celebrating the good ones when they come, and never losing sight of the people who matter most.
We’re also absolutely gutted for those whose story will now be rushed into this Sunday’s Country Calendar episode. They won’t get to experience the excitement and pride we’ve had over the past week, and I’m truly sorry they’ve been dragged into this.
And just to be clear — no electoral rules were ever being breached.
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7 September 2025
Happy Father’s Day! Over the past couple of weeks I’ve had an absolute ball walking the streets of Te Kuiti delivering my campaign fliers! We have such a wonderful town with lots of hidden little pockets full of nature, wonderful people, beautiful dogs and outstanding quarter acre pavlova paradises. What a great town!
A special thanks to my family and friends who helped and to my Fitbit who tells me I have walked over 50 kms on Te Kuiti’s footpaths.
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7 September 2025
In case you didn't get one of my brochures  |
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14 September 2025
What an awesome community we have here in Te Kūiti
A huge thank you to Legendary Te Kūiti for everything you do — from hosting the fantastic Meet the Candidates evening last week, to your Daffodil Day fundraising, bringing Anna Stretton to speak, and of course the fabulously fun quiz night at the Waitomo Club at the end of August.
Our Hollow Hill Farm family team (aka The Putaki Republic) had a great night out together, and we were delighted to share the win with The Bat Cave team — both teams happily donating our prizes to the Te Kūiti Fire Brigade
 . A great example of how coming together makes our community stronger. We are looking forward to next year's challenge!Legendary Te Kūiti's AGM is coming up soon — keep an eye out, and head along to show your support for the amazing work they do.
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20 September 2025
What a thought-provoking and stimulating two days it has been at the Institute of Directors’ Leadership Conference — which I chose to attend at my own cost because I believe in continually learning and growing as a leader.
The conference was packed with big topics and bold ideas — from the importance of trust in leadership and where it sits globally today, to future-focused international trends, innovation, governance challenges, and the lessons we can take from those leading in fast-changing sectors.
What stood out most for me was the emphasis on trust, humility, and humour in leadership. Egos were firmly left at the door — even with three Dames among the speakers, one was warmly introduced simply as “DT.” It was a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about people, values, and actions.
I was especially proud to see our very own Lines Company Chair, Bella Takiari-Brame, on one of the breakout panels, sharing insights that put our region on the national stage. And the whole event was masterfully held together by Miriama Kamo, who brought her journalist’s ability to summarise key themes and ask just the right questions — at times it felt like being part of a live Sunday current affairs show.
For me, the conference wasn’t just about listening — it was about connecting. I’ve come home with 29 pages of notes, practical resources, and new networks from across New Zealand. I can’t share every detail here, but I can share this: I’m bringing those learnings back to Waitomo, to strengthen how we grow our economy, protect our environment, and support our communities.
This is what fresh leadership looks like — open to learning, grounded in humility, and focused on how national and international thinking can be put to work locally for the benefit of our people today and for generations to come.
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21 September 2025
Here is my speech from the recent Meet the Candidate Evenings.
First, thank you to everyone here tonight. Thank you for caring about our district. Thank you for caring about democracy.
Strong communities are built when people engage, ask questions, and hold their leaders to account.
My name is Janette Osborne, and I’m standing for Mayor of Waitomo District or re-election as a Rural Ward Councillor.
I farm sheep and beef with my husband Kim on 800 hectares at Hollow Hill, and we run Briar Patch Yarns. Ours is a four-generation family committed to this district. Alongside farming and business, I bring over 25 years as a Chartered Accountant in both government and private sector roles. I’m a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, and I serve as a trustee on the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust and Maru Energy Trust. I also sit as a board member on three other non-profit boards. I have also been a director of Carrfields Primary Wool and a director and Chair of Primary Wool Co-operative — both national wool companies. In short — I understand governance, I understand finance, and I know how to ask the hard questions.
Why does that matter? Because Waitomo needs fresh leadership that is practical, financially disciplined, and focused on the right priorities.
Our rates are some of the highest in the country when compared to similar councils – which I have been doing. Ratepayers deserve answers about why costs are where they are, and they deserve solutions that make life more affordable without cutting the essential services we rely on.
The role of Mayor must focus first on core services done well. That means reliable roading, water, and waste services, delivered efficiently and fairly. We also need a tidy, well-planned transfer of our water assets to Waikato Waters in 2026, and clear planning for the transition that will follow inside Council. This is a big change — and it must be done carefully, transparently, and with ratepayers kept fully informed.
We can’t cost cut our way to affordability – we need to also lift incomes.
Tourism is one way we do that. Every year hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the Waitomo Caves, but too few venture farther — to Te Kūiti, Piopio, Benneydale, Mokau. We need stronger promotion, better signage, and more joined-up thinking to ensure those visitors support our local shops, cafés, and accommodation providers.
We need to support and nurture both small and large businesses and buy local.
Not everything requires money. We can often achieve results for minimal or no cost by offering a venue, giving exposure, or connecting the right people. Sometimes it’s the support or the networking that makes the difference — and that’s something council can do well without adding to rates.
We must also be smarter about cost control. Too often councils leap to expensive consultant reports before asking the first questions. If we do the groundwork first — checking history, understanding past decisions, and asking if a project is truly a core service and whether it should be prioritised — we can save hundreds of thousands of dollars. Only then should we commission specialist reports. Strategy before spend.
Leadership style matters too. All voices around the table should be heard. You elect your councillors to represent you and I will ensure your representatives are heard.
And this is what it comes down to: Waitomo deserves a strong future. Leadership that leads by example, that is collaborative, invested in the future of our district, and committed to doing the right thing. Because a rising tide lifts all boats — when we grow opportunities and strengthen our communities, everyone benefits.
So what do I offer?
• A proven track record in governance and finance.
• A focus on core services delivered well and affordably.
• A commitment to economic growth so incomes rise alongside costs.
• A practical approach to saving money by doing the groundwork before spending on reports.
• And a style of leadership that is transparent, constructive, and community-minded.
I believe with fresh leadership, careful financial management, and pride in our communities, we can make Waitomo stronger — not just for today, but for generations to come.
Thank you.
Thank you also to everyone involved with Project Piopio Trust and Legendary Te Kūiti for the fantastic Meet the Candidates evenings. And a special thank you also to Lisa Hill for Livestreaming both events and making them available on the Waitomo Residents and Ratepayers group page.
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22 September 2025
We’ve got a chance to really put Waitomo on the national map — to be the talk of New Zealand for all the right reasons. Let’s aim for the highest voter turnout in the country!
This election is special — we have the most candidates ever, and some truly fantastic people have put their hands up to serve our district. Show your support. Let’s show the country how it’s done.
 Your voting pack has candidate profiles — just 150 words each, quick and easy to read. Or check out candidate posts on Facebook, in the newspaper, or in the fliers already delivered to your home. Want to know more? Contact details for every candidate are on the Waitomo District Council website under Vote 2025. Don’t hesitate to email or ring them. If you’re posting your form, get it in the mail quickly — or drop it into the orange boxes at:- WDC Customer Services and Visitor Hub (Rora St)
- Waitomo District Library
- WDC admin office building (Queen St)
- The Warehouse, Te Kūiti
- Te Kūiti Medical Centre
Let’s get those votes flowing early so the media start talking about us — the little District that could!
 PLEASE VOTE TODAY!
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27 September 2025
 Affordability has two sides.
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